All articles tagged with #hay fever
Japan's spring allergies are blamed on postwar monocultures of sugi and hinoki, whose heavy pollen blankets cities each spring; the government aims to cut 20% of these plantations and replace them with biodiverse broadleaf forests, while using pollen forecasting and new treatments, though the transition faces soil erosion, biodiversity loss, and climate-change challenges.
A BBC guide outlines nine science-based strategies to reduce hay fever symptoms: use nasal corticosteroid or combined sprays (not pills) as first-line treatment, avoid prolonged use of nasal decongestants, if using pills choose second-generation antihistamines, start treatment weeks before pollen season and take it regularly and correctly, ensure proper nasal-eye drop technique, reduce exposure to triggers (keep windows closed, wear sunglasses or a mask, shower after outdoors), and seek medical help if symptoms persist (allergen immunotherapy may offer longer-term relief).
A BBC health feature explains that allergen immunotherapy—especially sublingual drops taken under the tongue—offers a long-term solution for hay fever by desensitising patients to pollen, with evidence of symptom relief lasting years after treatment ends and potential asthma-risk reduction. While injections carry a small risk of anaphylaxis and uptake is limited, sublingual immunotherapy provides a safer, cost-efficient alternative to injections. Treatment typically lasts about three years and should start weeks before pollen season; complementary options include antihistamine-corticosteroid nasal sprays and reducing pollen exposure. Biologics can help severe cases but are costly and don’t induce remission, underscoring the need for early referral and adherence to treatment regimens.
As spring brings seasonal illnesses like hay fever, it's important to distinguish its symptoms from those of a cold or Covid-19. The NHS outlines key differences, noting that hay fever may cause itchy, red eyes, while colds can lead to a sore throat and a hoarse voice, and Covid-19 may involve a high temperature, loss of taste or smell, and shortness of breath. Understanding these distinctions can help in choosing the right course of treatment and managing symptoms effectively.
A man in the UK suffered a rare injury when he attempted to suppress a sneeze and ended up ripping a hole in his windpipe. The incident occurred while he was driving and had hay fever. Instead of letting the sneeze go naturally, he squeezed his nose and shut his lips, resulting in severe neck pain. The case was reported in the BMJ case reports.
A man in the UK tore open his windpipe after holding in a sneeze, which is believed to be the first documented case of such an injury. The man, who had a history of hay fever, experienced severe neck pain after stifling his sneeze by pinching his nose and closing his mouth. Medical tests revealed a spontaneous tracheal perforation, a hole in his windpipe. While more serious cases require urgent surgery, the man was treated conservatively with painkillers and allergy medication, and his tear healed completely after five weeks. Holding in sneezes can lead to rare but serious complications, and doctors advise against it.
In a rare case, a man tore his windpipe while trying to hold in a sneeze, causing a tiny hole in his windpipe. The force of the suppressed sneeze resulted in a 20 times stronger sneeze, causing significant damage. The man sought medical attention and was diagnosed with surgical emphysema. Although he did not require surgery, he was kept under observation for two days and advised to avoid physically demanding activities. Doctors warn against stifling sneezes and emphasize that windpipe injuries are extremely rare but not impossible.
Medical experts are reporting a rise in cases of Autumn Sneezing Syndrome, also known as allergic rhinitis or hay fever, during the colder months. Many individuals are experiencing sneezing fits and runny noses without other cold or flu symptoms, leading them to believe they have a different illness. The increase in cases may be attributed to higher levels of airborne mould and fungal spores during autumn, which can trigger hay fever allergies. Common triggers include dead vegetation, grass cuttings, compost heaps, and garden sheds. Allergy experts recommend taking antihistamines and using nasal steroid sprays to alleviate symptoms. Showering and changing clothes after being outside in areas with high mould spore levels can also help reduce exposure.
A study published in Nature Communications suggests that childhood allergies, including eczema, hay fever, asthma, and food allergies, may be caused by disorders in the gut bacteria. Researchers found that all four conditions share a common cause, which is a breakdown in the ecosystem of bacteria, fungi, and archaea in the intestine, leading to compromised gut lining and heightened inflammation. The study also found that antibiotic usage in the first year of life increases the risk of later allergic disorders, while breastfeeding for the first six months is protective. Developing therapies that target gut bacteria interactions during infancy may prevent the development of childhood allergies.
Babies with eczema are more likely to develop food allergies, asthma, and hay fever in a specific order known as the "allergic march," according to a study published in Pediatrics. The research, which analyzed medical records of over 200,000 children, found that eczema was typically diagnosed at 4 months, followed by food allergies and asthma at around 13 months, and hay fever at 26 months. Some children may also develop eosinophilic esophagitis by 35 months. The study highlights the importance of monitoring children with early eczema for other allergies and suggests that preventing eczema could potentially prevent the development of other allergies.
A UK pharmacist has advised on unusual hay fever symptoms to look out for, including excessive sweating, loss of smell and taste, headaches and migraines, face pain, and asthma. Hay fever sufferers may experience these symptoms due to inflammation caused by pollen. While hay fever can be managed with allergy treatments and lifestyle changes, severe symptoms may require medical attention. People with hay fever are also more likely to develop asthma.
With hay fever affecting an increasing number of people, drug-free remedies are becoming more popular. Quercetin, a plant pigment found in many foods, has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects and acts as an antihistamine for allergies including hay fever. The Klarify: Pollen And Allergy app offers free pollen and air quality forecasts based on location, helping users determine which type of pollen triggers their hay fever. Vaseline can also be used as a balm to trap pollen before it enters the body.
Allergy seasons are getting longer and pollen levels are rising, causing many Americans to reach for over-the-counter medication to treat their allergies. However, these medications come with side effects that can disrupt daily life, and overuse can be dangerous. This guide breaks down the most common OTC allergy medications, including Benadryl, Claritin, Allegra, Zyrtec, and Sudafed, explaining how they work, their forms, side effects, dangers, and effectiveness. It's important to follow recommended dosages and consult with a doctor before taking any medication.
Allergy season is getting longer and stronger, with pollen counts increasing by 21% across the US since 1990, according to new data. Over 85% of US cities have seen their allergy seasons lengthen by an average of 15 days since 1970. For those in Reno, Nevada, allergy season has extended by a hefty 99 days. An extended stint of pollen exposure can have significant health ramifications for those affected by seasonal hay fever, which hits roughly 26% of adults and 19% of children. Climate change is believed to be a contributing factor to the worsening of allergy season.
Warm weather has caused an explosion of pollen levels this spring, causing allergies to worsen in some parts of the US. Oak trees in the Southeast are contributing to record-high levels of pollen early in the season. Invasive plants such as Dalmatian toadflax and Johnsongrass can also trigger allergies and aggravate hay fever. Pollen from weeds, grasses, and trees are the primary sources of pollen that can cause allergies.